We just returned from a 15 day cruise on the Spirit to Hawaii and as expected, had a great time! Carnival continues to live up to its reputation by offering a great cruising experience at a reasonable price.

Embarkation/Debarkation

No complaints in this category. It is important to be patient and understanding because the cruise line is trying to load/unload over 2,100 passengers and their luggage in a short period of time. In addition, the ship is taking on fuel, water, food, supplies, etc. How this is all choreographed and completed in a relatively short timeframe is beyond comprehension. One observation and recommendation: During embarkation in San Diego it was raining. We noticed that some of the luggage was left on the pier in the rain without being covered. Some of the metal racks that held the luggage when being transported by forklifts were covered, however, the majority appeared to be left open to the elements. We commented to each other that since we had arrived early and that our luggage was placed on the pier (not covered) that it would probably be wet. We were right, when we got our luggage it was soaked as were the contents. Oh well, we laid out the clothes and they were dry by the next morning. Cannot control Mother Nature, however, the ground crew should have enough rain covers to cover all luggage being stored/transported in inclement weather. Read more